Otamendi is determined to leave Valencia, agent claims

Just two days after the season has ended in La Liga and their place in the Champions League clinched, Valencia have been struck with comments they'll be far from happy at hearing.

Speaking to Cadena SER Radio on Monday afternoon, Eugenio Lopez, the agent of star central defender Nicolas Otamendi, declared in no uncertain terms the wishes of his client:

"Nico wants to leave Valencia and will do everything possible to get out."

Lopez also claimed that this shouldn't come as surprising news to Valencia, or their club president Amadeo Salvo, as he explained:

"Nicolas told Amadeo Salvo two months ago to his face, that he wants to leave Valencia in the summer."

Valencia owner Peter Lim has invested heavily at Valencia, as the club strives to become a major force in La Liga and Europe. The Singapore billionaire has also relied heavily on the council of Portuguese super-agent, Jorge Mendes, when it comes to transfer dealings.

Nonetheless, Lopez was at the same time keen to point out Otamendi: "Is really happy with Valencia and with the fans, and there's no need for a problem with the fans, but he has the opportunity to improve professionally."

This a clear reference to the potential of a move to Manchester United, who are expected to match the €50 million release clause valuation of Valencia, thus leaving them with no choice but to open negotiations.

Heath Chesters

Heath Chesters moved from Spain to England in 2005 and never looked back. Enjoying a Spanish football adventure with Granada CF, he eventually joined the press department at the club. As a La Liga correspondent at HITC Sport, he aims to share his insight and enthusiasm for the game in Spain.